AB-38 Defensible Space Inspections
Required documentation for home sales in California fire hazard zones.
AB-38: Your Required Sale Documentation
If you’re selling a home in a High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in California, you’re required to provide buyers with documentation showing the property meets defensible space requirements.
This isn’t optional — it’s California law under Assembly Bill 38 (AB-38), effective since July 2021. After the recent LA fires, this requirement is more relevant than ever. Buyers are paying attention. Lenders are paying attention
Key Requirement
AB-38 requires sellers of residential property in designated fire hazard zones to provide buyers with documentation proving the property complies with CAL FIRE defensible space requirements. This documentation must be provided before close of escrow
Understanding Defensible Space Zones
Defensible space is the buffer zone around a structure where vegetation and other combustible materials have been managed to reduce wildfire risk. California law requires three specific zones:
Zone 0 (0-5 feet)
Immediate zone around structure — no combustible materials.
Zone 1 (5-30 feet)
Lean, clean, and green — reduced and spaced vegetation.
Zone 2 (30-100 feet)
Reduced fuel zone — create breaks in vegetation to slow fire spread.
Who Needs an AB-38 Inspection?
You need AB-38 documentation if you’re selling a residential property located in:
A High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (State Responsibility Area)
A Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (State or Local Responsibility Area)
An area with local vegetation management ordinances
This includes much of the hillside and foothill areas throughout Los Angeles County, Ventura County, Orange County, and throughout Southern California.
Our AB-38 Inspection Process
On-Site Inspection: We inspect your property against CAL FIRE defensible space requirements, evaluating vegetation clearance, combustible materials, and compliance with zone requirements.
Compliance Documentation: If your property is compliant, you receive written documentation stating compliance with defensible space requirements — the documentation required for your sale.
Deficiency Report (If Needed): If the property doesn’t currently meet requirements, we provide a clear report of what needs to be addressed.
Photo Documentation: High-resolution photos documenting the property’s defensible space condition.
What If the Property Isn’t Compliant?
If the inspection reveals non-compliance, you have two primary options:
Option 1: Fix Before Close
Make the required vegetation management changes, then schedule a re-inspection for compliance documentation. Most defensible space issues can be resolved relatively quickly with vegetation clearing, debris removal, and landscaping adjustments.
Option 2: Agreement with Buyer
Enter into a written agreement with the buyer. AB-38 allows sellers and buyers to agree in writing that the buyer will obtain compliance documentation within one year of close of escrow.
Why Choose Us:
- Fast scheduling (most inspections within 3-5 days)
- Clear, professional documentation
- Re-inspection after corrections if needed
Our Coverage:
We provide coverage throughout LA County, Orange County, Ventura County, and surrounding areas.
For Realtors and Listing Agents
If you’re listing properties in fire hazard zones, AB-38 compliance is a transaction requirement. Getting this handled early prevents last-minute scrambles and keeps deals on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my property is in a fire hazard zone?
CAL FIRE maintains maps of Fire Hazard Severity Zones. You can search your address at fire.ca.gov or contact us and we can verify.
How long does the inspection take?
Most inspections take 30-60 minutes depending on property size and terrain.
How quickly can I get the documentation?
If the property is compliant, documentation is typically provided within 24-48 hours of inspection.
What does it cost?
Contact us for current pricing. Re-inspections after corrections are available at a reduced rate.
What happens if I don’t get the documentation before sale?
AB-38 allows seller and buyer to enter a written agreement where the buyer agrees to obtain compliance documentation within one year of closing. However, having documentation ready before listing is cleaner and prevents potential deal complications.
Selling in a Fire Zone? Get Your AB-38 Documentation.
Schedule your AB-38 defensible space inspection and get the compliance documentation you need before listing.
Call: (626) 214-5929